NAACP Cleveland Branch 2023 Impact Report

20IMPACT 23 REPORT Advancing Justice and Equality in Cleveland

@naacp_cleveland WWW.CLEVELANDNAACP.ORG

The Cleveland Branch was established in 1912 to improve the political, educational, social, and economic status of minority groups; to eliminate racial prejudice; to keep the public aware of the adverse effects of racial discrimination; and to take lawful action to secure its elimination, consistent with the efforts of the national organization.

Executive Officers Kayla Griffin- President William Tarter Jr.- 1st VP Pamela Gray Mason- 2nd VP Jazmin Long- 3rd VP Ronisha Jordan- Secretary Jamil Sanders- Treasurer & Finance Committee Chair The Cleveland Branch is one of the oldest existing units and over the years, the Cleveland Branch of the NAACP has helped those in the community who are without any other means of assistance through advocacy and programmatic services.

2023 IMPACT REPORT

Executive Committee Members Executive Committee Members James Wade- Communication,Chair Kelso Nelson- Special Events, Chair Regis Bunch- Criminal justice, Chair Francis Blount- Membership, Chair TiaMarshae Johnson- ACT-SO, Chair Matt Eck- Armed Services & Veterans Affairs,Chair Danielle Sydnor- Freedom Fund ,Chair Alana Garrett-Ferguson- WIN, Chair Shawn CrosbyYouth Council, Chair Ifeolu Claytor- Political Action, Chair Renee Richard- Economic Development, Chair Davida Russell- Labor & Industry, Chair Janus Smalls - Religious Affairs, Chair Anthony Scott, Esq.-Housing ,Chair Legal Redress-Vacant Health-Vacant

Staff Edwin Hubbard Jr.- Executive Director DeLorean Griffin - Executive Assistant Katrice Williams - Policy & Advocacy Strategist Jason Garrett – Communications Strategist

2023 IMPACT REPORT

Dear Members of the Cleveland NAACP, Merry Christmas and Happy Kwanzaa!

As we reflect on the past year, it is with great pride and gratitude that we share our Annual Impact Report, highlighting the strides we've made together in the pursuit of justice, equality, and empowerment for all.

Throughout the year, our dedicated members have played a pivotal role in addressing systemic issues, advocating for marginalized communities, and fostering positive change in Cleveland. From community outreach initiatives to impactful policy advocacy, our collective efforts have left a lasting imprint on the fight against discrimination.

Key accomplishments include successful electoral advocacy for Ohio’s August and November elections, awareness campaign on the devastating effects of menthol tobacco use, diversity roundtable workshops, and union advocacy at the playhouse square, all of which demonstrate our commitment to creating a more just and equitable society. Additionally, our collaborations with community partners, educational institutions, and local leaders have strengthened our impact and expanded our reach.

Looking ahead, we remain steadfast in our mission. The challenges we face may be daunting, but our shared commitment to justice propels us forward. Together, we will continue to advocate for equality, challenge systemic injustices, and work towards a brighter future for all Cleveland residents.

I encourage you to review the attached Annual Impact Report for a comprehensive overview of our collective achievements and the positive changes we've contributed to our community.

Your ongoing support and dedication are invaluable, and we look forward to another year of collaboration and progress.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to the principles of the NAACP. Together, we are making a difference.

In solidarity,

Kayla S. Griffin Esq Kayla S. Griffin, Esq.

Cleveland NAACP President

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Cleveland NAACP is Strong: MEMBERSHIP 2023: 1,321 ACTIVE MEMBERS

2022: 1,369 ACTIVE MEMBERS

2021: 1,068 ACTIVE MEMBERS

2020: 1,068 ACTIVE MEMBERS

OUR STAFF 2 FULL TIME STAFF 3 INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS

2 FULL TIME STAFF

2023

4 INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS 2 INTERNS AND 1 FELLOW

2022

2 FULL TIME STAFF

2021

1 FULL TIME STAFF

2020

1,321 ACTIVE MEMBERS At Cleveland NAACP, we are not just advocates for change; we are active collaborators and integral parts of the communities we srve, working hand in hand to create meaningful and lasting impact together.

FROM THE EXCUTIVE DIRECTOR Dear Members & Community Partners, I trust this letter finds you well. As the Executive Director of the Cleveland Branch of the NAACP, I am compelled to address the pivotal role that civic responsibility plays in shaping the future of our community. Civic responsibility is the cornerstone of a thriving and equitable society. It goes beyond the act of voting; it encompasses active engagement in community affairs, advocating for social justice, and fostering a sense of unity among our diverse population.

In these challenging times, it is crucial for each of us to recognize the power we hold as individuals to effect positive change. By staying informed about local issues, participating in public discourse, and supporting initiatives that promote fairness and equality, we contribute to the collective strength of Northeast Ohio. Our community's progress depends on the active involvement of its citizens. Through volunteerism, attending town hall meetings, and holding our elected officials accountable, we not only uphold the principles of democracy but also ensure that the concerns of every resident are heard and addressed. As members of the Cleveland NAACP, we are entrusted with the legacy of advocating for civil rights.

Embracing our civic responsibilities is a direct extension of that legacy. Let us stand together, united in our commitment to fostering a community where justice, equality, and opportunity are accessible to all. I encourage you to join us in this journey toward a brighter and more inclusive Northeast Ohio. By collectively embracing our civic duties, we can build a future that reflects the values of fairness and justice that the Cleveland NAACP has long championed.

Thank you for your dedication to our community, and I look forward to the positive impact we can achieve together!

Sincerely,

Edwin Hubbard Jr

EDWIN HUBBARD JR.- EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Cleveland NAACP Collaborates!

In 2023, we continued to reinforce our commitment to community and collaboration, recognizing that progress is most potent when we come together. Throughout the year, we forged partnerships with a diverse array of organizations, community groups, and individuals who share our vision of a more equitable and just society. These collaborations not only enriched our collective efforts but also underscored our belief that real change happens when we actively engage with and empower the communities we serve. Let's take a closer look at some of the remarkable collaborations and the impactful work we achieved together.

The Right to Read: A Screening and Conversation in conjunction with East Cleveland City Schools, Cuyahoga County Fatherhood Initiative, NAACP Cleveland, Metro Cleveland Alliance of Black School Educators, Urban League of Greater Cleveland and the Greater Cleveland Film Festival.

Cleveland NAACP Collaborates!

Vietnam Veterans Commemoration

Accountability Roundtable: Moving Closer To fulfilling the obligation

On The Hush Black Repro in Cleveland

Souls to The Polls:Divine 9 March to the polls

Cleveland Metropolitan School District Youth Summit

Taste of Black Cleveland

The Re-enactment of the March on Washington in conjunction with the Urban League of Greater Cleveland

Cleveland NAACP Collaborates!

SEPTEMBER 16TH

Mocafi: On Our Block Cleveland, A Community Banking Clinic Pop-up Powered by Key Bank in conjunction with Thirdspace Action Lab, and Famicos Foundation

The Real Black Friday Battle of the Bands

Futureland

Women of Color Foundation Womens Ledership Summit

HBCU College Fair

Cleveland NAACP: Leading Change through Justice, Equality, Advocacy

Organized a bus charter in support of the Freethehair Crown Act Lobby day in Columbus ,Ohio.

Union Apprenticeship BuiltEnvironment Job Fair in partnership with Ohio Means Jobs with National NAACP

October 16th A discussion with Governor Whitmer of Michigan regarding critical issues affecting people of color in the Midwest, upcoming ballot measures and discovery of shared challenges uniting our states.

We are dedicated to driving positive transformation in our community, relentlessly pursuing justice and equality for all, and advocating for a brighter, more equitable future." we are committed to driving progress and addressing critical issues affecting communities of color in the Midwest."

Cleveland NAACP: Leading Change through Awareness MAY 20TH

Public Swearing In of President Kayla S. Griffin and Executive Committee Members

Women of Courage Conversation with National NAACP

NAACP Open House

Hatitude: The Essence of Her Brunch

African American Wellness Walk at Wade Oval.

Community Series: Changing the Narrative on Youth Justice and Violence Prevention A Panel Conversation FeaturingJ. Anne McDonough (Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas Juvenile Division) Takasha Smith (Juvenile Justice Coalition) Leah Winsberg (Children’s Law Center, Kentucky) Ronnie Cannon (Towards Employment)

Our goal is to illuminate critical issues and drive social change for a more just and equitable society.

Cleveland NAACP: Leading Change through Voting

August 5th Souls to The Polls: An afternoon march to the polls to fight for democracy.

The Intergenerational Lunch: Power to the Polls Hosted by Thirdspace Action Lab

A conversation about voting and what is on the ballot for November 7th election

November 5th Souls to The Polls: An afternoon march to the polls to fight for democracy.

Pull Up To The Polls: A free early voting celebration Hosted by Cleveland Votes at the Cleveland Board of Elections.

We believe in the power of every ballot to dismantle systemic barriers and forge a path toward equality and justice for all."Empowering communities to make their voices heard and shape a brighter future through active civic engagement.

Cleveland NAACP: Fundraising

Freedom Fund.

To commemorate 111 years of service to the Greater Cleveland community, the Freedom Fund Dinner was held on July 15, 2023, at Cleveland Browns Stadium, We Honored JENEEN SPRINGER MARZIANI President, Bank Of America Ohio as the 2023 Corporate Honoree. This year’s dinners a true celebration of the work the NAACP has done in Greater Cleveland and nationally. We are proud of our history of fighting for civil rights, and social justice, and advocating for educational and economic opportunities for the citizens of the communities we serve. Public Intellectual & BestSelling Author, MICHAEL ERIC DYSON was our keynote speaker.

YEAR

RAISED

LOCATION

2023

$330,000 +

CLEVELAND BROWNS STADIUM

2022

$338,000

CLEVELAND RENNISANCE HOTEL

2021

$303,000

CLEVELAND RENNISANCE HOTEL

Cleveland NAACP In The News CLICK TO VIEW LINKS IN NEW WINDOW JAN 22ND- KAYLA INTERVIEW -STRATEGIC MOVES WITH KEN DOWELL

APRIL 10TH- CLOSING NE OHIO'S RACIAL WEALTH GAP

APRIL 20TH- NEWS 5 - BLACK PARENTS HAVE TOUGH CONVERSATION WITH CHILDREN

MAY 1- CRAIN'S: NAACP NAMES NEW ED

JUNE 14TH -THE WAY FORWARD LEADER LUNCH BREAK: EDWIN HUBBARD JR.

JUNE 29TH- AFFIRMATIVE ACTION

AUGUST 9TH- FOX 8 -A TASTE OF BLACK CLEVELAND

NOVEMBER 3RD- OHIO PURGED 26,000 VOTERS

NOVEMBER 8TH- CHANNEL 19 -ISSUE 38

NOVEMBER 16TH- LEADERS PUSH TO END SALE OF FLAVORED TOBACCO

NOVEMBER 20TH- REMOVAL OF STATE REP FORHAN

COLLABORATE WITH US IN 2024 We are inviting you to collaborate with us, whether you repr esent an organization, a community group, or simply have a passion for creating a more equitable world. By working together, we can magnify our impact and accelerate progress in areas such as education, economic empowerment, healthcare access, and criminal justice reform.

EdwinHubbardJr@clevelandnaacp.org www.clevelandnaacp.org @naacp_cleveland

2023 IMPACT REPORT